Based on the true life story of Jacqueline Du Pre -- reportedly one of the most gifted musicians of the 20th century who died at the age of forty-two from multiple sclerosis -- and adapted from the novel, "A Genius in the Family," written by her siblings, Hilary and Piers Du Pré, "Hilary and Jackie" is a compelling look at the life of a classical musician as well as the lasting effects of sibling rivalry.
While not a happy story by any means, the film does feature some strong performances from its leads, as well as an unconventional, but welcomed approach at telling its story. Although the film initially appears to be a straightforward -- albeit somewhat haphazardly constructed -- chronological recounting of the sisters' lives, about two-thirds of the ways through it suddenly hits the brakes, backs up and then retells the story, but this time from another character's viewpoint.
The effect, while certainly not new, fortunately hasn't been overused and will be novel to most moviegoers. Thus, while this rewind feature may be a bit unsettling for those who prefer linear story telling, it does make the film much more interesting than it initially appears it will be. Until that point, the picture simply seems to be meandering along toward its conclusion without a steadily strong narrative skeleton (beyond the progression of time) to keep things in order.
Although first-time feature film director Anand Tucker and cinematographer David Johnson keep the otherwise sedentary musical performances visually interesting by swinging around the performers like an irksome deer fly, the film reaches its false conclusion without much of anything spectacular really happening and the audience is left wondering, "Is this it?"
By heading backwards in time and remounting the story from another perspective, however, Tucker not only allows the moviegoer to see the events in an entirely different fashion, but also explains what really occurred in the first telling. By adding to, and expounding on those elements, the film becomes that much more satisfying and rewarding.
Storytelling effects aside, however, it's the fabulous performances from the leads that really make the film work. Emily Watson ("The Boxer"), who was nominated for a Best Actress Oscar for her work in "Breaking the Waves," is simply stunning as the ill-fated and troubled musician. Exquisitely playing the gamut of emotions one would expect from a woman who experiences the highs and lows of fame and tragedy and everything in between, Watson perfectly plays the role and should receive another nomination for her tremendous performance.
Equally good, but in a less showy way, is Rachel Griffiths ("Cosi," "Muriel's Wedding"). Playing the sister who eventually backs away from the competitive world in which she realizes she can no longer flourish, Griffiths gives her character subtle nuances that play well against her more successful sister. Once things turn around regarding Jackie's health, however, her portrayal gets even that much better, and while it's not an aggressive performance like Watson's, it's equally as good.
Supporting performances from the likes of James Frain (who was also quite impressive in "Elizabeth") and TV actor David Morissey are solid and nicely complement the work provided by the leading ladies.
Working from the script by Frank Cottrell Boyce ("Welcome to Sarajevo"), Tucker includes some nice moments throughout the film, such as Jackie spreading her home-laundered clothes on her hotel bed to remind her of home. There's also an intriguing and mysterious encounter the two young sisters have with a stranger on the beach. While the scene bookends the film and its second appearance explains the first and everything in between, it also beautifully wraps up the story.
While not for everyone's tastes -- those who liked "Shine" are the likely appreciative audience -- the film definitely gets better the more time one gives it to develop. Although not a happy tale by any means, the strong and poignant performances make it worth recommending. We give "Hilary and Jackie" a 6.5 out of 10.